WBA Local Broadcast Legend and beloved member of the Beaver Dam community Bill McCollum has died.
Known as “Uncle Bill,” he started his career in Beaver Dam in 1963. Ten years later, he joined the late John Moser on the WBEV Morning Show and the pair’s friendship quickly grew both on-air and off. They co-hosted the program together until 2016 when McCollum stepped away for health reasons.
Both were named WBA Local Broadcast Legends in 2021.
The news of McCollum’s passing was announced by WBEV/Good Karma Brands Founder and Chief Executive Officer Craig Karmazin during the Barn Show on Thursday.
“Bill was more than just a voice heard on the radio for the last 61 years; he was a pillar of the Dodge County community, a cherished friend, and played a foundational role in what Good Karma Brands has come to represent, both in his humbleness and in how he loved and cared for fans, partners and teammates,” Karmazin said.
The Barn Show with Uncle Bill is the longest running program in Beaver Dam’s radio history. On the air since 1974, the show was a staple for polka-enthusiasts. McCollum was also the top biller in the sales department of the radio stations for 50 years, growing close relationships and lasting friendships with his partners.
WBEV and 1430 ESPN Station Manager Sheri Sackett said there are no words to describe the impact McCollum made on Good Karma Brands and in the community. She said he constantly worked for what was best for his fans, partners, and teammates.
During his last broadcast on the Morning Show in 2016, fans called in for 90 minutes to wish McCollum well and told him about the positive impact his show had on their lives.
McCollum’s career was also celebrated in 2017 when Stoddart Street, which runs for about two blocks in front of the radio station, was renamed Bill McCollum Way.
